In this guide 2 sections
Dentures, glasses and hearing aids can leave a large coverage gap. Original Medicare generally does not cover these items, but plan benefits, limited Medicare exceptions and lower cost programs may help.
Start with these four steps
- 1.Call your Medicare Advantage plan, if you have one. Ask whether your plan includes dental, vision or hearing benefits. Ask what providers you must use and what approval is required.
- 2.For dentures, contact a dental school or a federally funded health center. Also ask your state Medicaid office, state or local health department, or 211 about lower cost dental care. Adult Medicaid dental benefits vary by state.
- 3.For eye care, check EyeCare America eligibility. The program gives qualifying uninsured and underinsured adults access to a no cost medical eye exam. The available evidence confirms help with the exam, not free glasses.
- 4.For hearing aids, check whether you qualify for the FDA regulated over the counter category. Adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss can buy these devices in stores or online without a medical exam, prescription or audiologist fitting. This category does not apply to every person or every level of hearing loss.
Check whether a Medicare exception applies
Original Medicare may cover certain dental services that are directly related to covered medical treatment or qualifying hospital care. Part B covers one pair of standard frame glasses, or one set of contact lenses, after each cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens. Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting them.
Questions families ask
Does Original Medicare cover dentures?
In most cases, no. Original Medicare generally does not cover dentures, implants or routine dental care. It may cover specific dental services that are directly related to certain covered medical treatments or qualifying hospital care.
Can Medicare cover glasses after cataract surgery?
Part B covers one pair of glasses with standard frames, or one set of contact lenses, after each cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens. The supplier must participate in Medicare.
Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer extra hearing benefits, so contact the plan for its rules.
Where can I ask about lower cost dentures?
Ask dental schools, dental hygiene schools, federally funded health centers, your state Medicaid office, your health department and 211. Services and eligibility can vary, so ask each resource specifically about dentures.
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